Education and International Development

The MSc in Education and International Development at University College London offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex challenges faced by education systems worldwide, particularly in developing countries. This programme equips students with critical analytical skills, theoretical insights, and practical knowledge to address issues such as inequality, access, quality, and sustainability in education across diverse contexts. Through a blend of rigorous academic coursework and empirical research, students explore the socio-economic, political, and cultural factors that influence educational development globally. The programme covers a wide range of topics, including education policy analysis, curriculum development, language and literacy, inclusive education, and the role of international organizations in shaping educational agendas. Students are encouraged to develop innovative approaches and evidence-based solutions to improve educational outcomes, with an emphasis on fostering social justice and sustainable development. The diverse faculty team brings extensive expertise in international education, development economics, social policy, and related fields, ensuring an enriching learning environment. The programme also provides opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and collaborative projects, allowing students to gain practical experience and build professional networks within the international education community. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in policy-making, research, NGOs, international agencies, and educational leadership roles. Overall, the MSc in Education and International Development aims to develop knowledgeable, reflective, and action-oriented professionals committed to advancing equitable and effective education worldwide.

This programme provides students with the opportunity to develop academically grounded professional skills for working in education and international development, and skills and knowledge in research methods. Students benefit from being taught by renowned researchers of education and international development and international guest speakers. Students will also meet a diverse student group: our alumni are from more than 80 countries.

Students on the programme can apply for a place on an optional study visit to Paris (not included in the course fee). The Paris Study Tour introduces students to the work of key international organisations in education and development. In the past, the trip has included visits to UNESCO, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the International Institute for Educational Planning (IIEP).

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of one core module (30 credits) and either three optional modules (90 credits) and  a dissertation (60 credits) or four optional modules (120 credits) and a report (30 credits).

Core modules

• Education and International Development: Concepts, Theories and Issues

Optional modules

Three optional modules (90 Credits) or, if a report is presented, four optional modules (120 Credits) can be chosen. At least two of the modules must be chosen from within the EID Cluster below:

• Gender, Education and Development
• Education, Conflict and Fragility
• Planning for Education and Development
• Learners, Learning and Teaching in the Context of Education for All
• Promoting Health and Wellbeing: Planning, Practice and Participation
• Education and Muslim Communities
• Gender, Sexuality and Education

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a 20,000-word dissertation or 10,000-word report.

Teaching and learning

Teaching on the MA EID is intended to provide learners with a critical perspective on a range of different frameworks through which they can understand their experiences and practice. A range of teaching and learning methods are used including lectures, participant-led presentations, group work, workshops, online activities. Assessment is via various forms of coursework including discursive essays, critical analysis of empirical research, reviews of literature, and the dissertation or report.

A minimum of a second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or overseas qualification of an equivalent standard is required together with relevant experience in low or middle-income countries (normally a minimum of six months). Applicants should demonstrate commitment and genuine interest in issues relating to education and international development.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme (CSSS)

Value:

Full fees, flights, stipend, and other allowances (1 year)

Eligibility:

Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on both academic merit and financial need

The MSc in Education and International Development at University College London offers students an in-depth exploration of the interconnectedness between education systems and global development. The program is designed for individuals interested in understanding how education can serve as a catalyst for social change, economic progress, and sustainable development in diverse cultural and socio-economic contexts. Throughout the course, students examine key concepts related to education theory, policy, and practice, with a particular focus on issues affecting developing countries and marginalized communities.

The curriculum integrates empirical research methods, policy analysis, and critical perspectives to equip students with the analytical skills necessary to evaluate education initiatives and interventions globally. Students have the opportunity to study a range of topics including global education governance, equitable access to quality education, education and conflict, and the role of international agencies in shaping education policies. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, drawing from development studies, sociology, political science, and economics to provide a comprehensive understanding of education in development contexts.

Fieldwork, case studies, and engagement with practitioners form a vital part of the learning experience, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. The program is suited for those aiming to pursue careers in international development agencies, non-governmental organizations, educational policy-making, or research institutions focused on development issues. In addition to coursework, students undertake a dissertation that allows them to explore a specialized area within education and international development in depth.

UCL’s location in London provides a vibrant academic environment with access to a wide network of professionals, policymakers, and organizations involved in global development and education. The program encourages critical thinking, innovative solutions, and advocacy for equitable educational opportunities worldwide. Graduates of the MSc in Education and International Development are well-equipped to influence policy, implement effective programs, and contribute to scholarly research in the field of education and development.